Doug's Blog

Spring is here, bringing longer days and warmer temperatures. That melting snow is a welcome sight, but it also presents a flooding risk. Fortunately there are things you can do to protect yourself from springtime flooding.

Keep the Water Out

Before the snow begins melting, clear away any snow and obstructions that have accumulated around windows, and clear debris from gutters and downspouts. If there are any piles of snow near the house, move them further away. Make sure there’s nothing outside that would block proper drainage as the snow melts. Proper grading around your home is essential—the ground shouldn’t slope toward your home.

Minimize Risk

Even if water gets into your home, there are steps you can take to minimize the damage. Basements are
often used as storage, but it’s not a good idea to keep highly valuable or irreplaceable items down there.
Don’t take the risk, keep your treasured possessions above ground.

Also, make sure any water that enters your home can drain properly. Keep the drains in your basement clear of obstructions and consider installing a sump pump. If you already have one, make sure it’s in proper working order. Also consider installing a sewer backwater valve to prevent flooding
due to a sewer backup. By following these simple tips, you can reduce your risk of flooding and
enjoy the change of season.

The information in this article is courtesy of the Insurance Bureau of Canada (www.ibc.ca).